Wisdom of the Domesticated Wild

Pets are more than mere companions. Over the years, Mum had kept dogs and cats. They were great teachers especially on instinctive survival at its most basic. They never ever whimpered or howled incessantly when ill. They would seek out their favourite spots and recuperate quietly there.

They seldom needed to see the veterinarian. One that did died. She was hale and hearty when we sent her in to have her ingrown nail problem treated. The vet gave her an injection and she went to dog heaven afterwards. He gave some lame excuses about her having a weak heart and all. Truthfully, it was more like she died of an allergic reaction to the antibiotics.

Pets are great teachers because they still listen to their own bodies. By observing them, I learnt a lot. Their domestication had not taken away those primal natures that are essential to their continued existence. They eat when hungry, sleep when tired and do everything else in between. I thought how wonderful it would be if I could listen to my own body just like them.

Emulate them I did the past week. I have been seeking my favourite spot to recuperate – my bed. I have been taking long naps in the afternoon. Those extended siestas were refreshing. I woke up with a slightly less dull mind and more vigour to carry me through to dinner for my next energy boost. The only drawback is that I have very little time for anything else.

In time, I hope my body will adapt better to Detrusitol and the diet. The side effects have become less apparent. I am slowly getting used to taking less meat and more meals. I am performing my intermittent catheterisation diligently and according to schedule. I have done my part. That is all I can do. The rest, I leave to God’s Providence.

Author: Peter Tan

Peter Gabriel Tan. Penangite residing in the Klang Valley. Blissfully married to Wuan. A LaSallian through and through. Slave to three cats. Wheelchair user since 1984. End-stage renal disease since 2017. Principal Facilitator at Peter Tan Training specialising in Disability Equality Training. Former columnist of Breaking Barriers with The Borneo Post. This blog chronicles my life, thoughts and opinions. Connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.

4 thoughts on “Wisdom of the Domesticated Wild”

  1. Ahh yes….My kittys teach me volumes about relaxation! Lol! I worry a great deal…yet when one of my precious fur kids kuddles up to me, all my worries seem to vanish for a while…while my lil humming motor head babies purrrrrrr! Lolol! I hope, Peter, that your meds are beginning to help and the side fx lessen til there are no more….Wuan’s pix are lovely! Take care kidzz! Lol! I’m thinkin of u!

  2. Koda,
    Too bad I cannot keep furry pets here now. I am slowly getting used to the side effects of the medicine. Thanks.

Comments are closed.